Matric & Grade 12 Qualification
Matric is the final year of high school in South Africa and is officially called Grade 12. After passing, learners receive a National Senior Certificate (NSC).
Yes. Grade 12 is commonly referred to as Matric in South Africa.
Grade 12 is equivalent to NQF Level 4 on the South African National Qualifications Framework.
It is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) issued by the Department of Basic Education upon successful completion of Grade 12.
Most learners in Grade 12 are between 17 and 18 years old.
Matric Results & Marks
Final marks are calculated from school-based assessments (SBA) and final exams. Usually, SBA contributes 25%, and exams 75%.
You must get at least 40% in your Home Language, 40% in two other subjects, and 30% in three subjects. You must pass 6 out of 7 subjects.
Yes, 75% and above is considered a distinction in matric results.
Symbol B means a score between 70% and 79% in a subject.
Symbol C means you scored between 60% and 69% in that subject.
You can check your matric results on the DBE website, via SMS service, or directly from your school.
Add your total marks, divide by the full marks possible, then multiply by 100 to get the percentage.
University & Post-Matric Education
No. You must pass at least 6 subjects to obtain the National Senior Certificate.
Yes. Most universities use your Grade 11 results for conditional admission.
Yes. NSFAS funds students who meet both academic and financial eligibility criteria.
Yes, you can apply to combine N3 with Matric subjects through the Department of Education.
Jobs & Careers After Matric
Yes, some jobs don’t require Matric. You can also apply for certain learnerships or rewrite Matric.
Yes, many entry-level roles like cashier or teller require only a Matric certificate.
Apply for learnerships, internships, and jobs. Continue learning and improve your skills online or through short courses.
Yes. Your statement of results is valid proof until your certificate is available.
You can apply for internships, start a small business, freelance online, or find part-time work while gaining skills.